An exhibition titled "The Contemporary Lore: Sojourn of Styles and Generations Unfurled" has opened at Bikaner House in New Delhi, bringing together 23 contemporary Indian artists. Curated by Kiran K Mohan with a critical essay by art historian Johny ML, the show features works by veterans like Ashok Bhowmick and emerging talents like Nilisha Phad, spanning paintings, sculptures, and mixed media. The non-chronological arrangement aims to present artistic lineages as a landscape rather than a linear progression, encouraging dialogue across generations. The exhibition runs until May 14 before moving to Shailja Art Gallery in Gurugram from May 17 to June 13.
This exhibition matters because it challenges the dominance of established masters in the Indian art scene by deliberately placing seasoned practitioners alongside emerging artists as equal partners in conversation. By highlighting the connective tissue of contemporary practice across generations, the show signals a shift toward broader recognition of diverse voices and styles. It also underscores the role of regional galleries like Shailja Art Gallery in fostering artistic genealogy and creating awareness among art lovers, contributing to the evolving landscape of contemporary Indian art.